The National Green Tribunal (NGT) heard an original application filed suo motu, regarding pollution in Sindh Nallah in Ganderbal, Kashmir.
The Principal Bench comprising Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Judicial Member Justice Sudhir Agarwal and Expert Member Dr A Senthil Vel examined the issue based on a report filed by the Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) dated December 10, 2024.
The report revealed high levels of pollution in Sindh Nallah, exceeding tolerable limits for trout.
The water quality parameters showed excessive total hardness, coliform, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, and iron.
The report also highlighted untreated sewage from surrounding hotels and houses contributing to rising pollution.
The JKPCC’s Regional Director submitted a reply, stating that solid waste and plastic waste were found littered and dumped along the riverbank.
A solid waste management shed was established but not used. Legal notices were issued to Block Development Officers of Gund and Kangan Blocks.
The Tribunal directed the Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, and the Commissioner, Fisheries Department, Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, to appear virtually on the next date of hearing, as they failed to respond to notices.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) was directed to ensure the water quality analysis report was submitted according to standard methods.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on April 8, 2025.